Who guessed the right measurements?

I got so busy the last couple of days, I forgot to update about my wound! Great news, it's getting smaller: 2.4cm long by about 2cm deep. Nice. I'm glad there's lots of healing going on. Wouldn't it be the shit if it didn't take 6 months to heal? Healing thoughts are appreciated.

The appointment went well. I brought the kids with me, my own little entourage, haha. They are almost always very patient and curious when I bring them to the various appointments I have. Lots of questions are asked, and it's such a unique learning experience. You're not getting this kind of education at public school, that's for sure. While it's kind of sad that children so little had to learn about something as crappy as cancer by living with it, it's also cool to share with them. When a 5 year old can tell you what a colonoscopy is, I think that's all kinds of awesome. When that same 5 year old is explaining to her little friends about my ostomy supplies (dug out of my purse, of course) like it's normal, it makes me smile. I hope this experience helps my children have more compassion, be more willing to help, and sensitive to people who are struggling.

Back to the appointment...the nurse who checked me in was all, "I'll be taking your dressing down and then one of the other nurses will come in." She was surprised that all she had to do was take some gauze out. I guess she hasn't seen me in a while. ;) It's such a relief to go in and NOT have the whole experience hurt. I'm sure the nurses are much happier now too. I know it was hard for them as well as me. The wound looks great, and is very clean, according to the nurses, so that's good.

The next thing? I go in for bloodwork next week and I also have the port removed. I like that things are wrapping up. Finally.

I feel so good. Yes, I get tired, but that's a minor thing. I'm back to doing housework, back to meeting friends, adjusting to the new normal. The new normal is a lot like the old normal, for me anyway. At least I think it is. I suppose it's been a while since I felt "normal." And what does that mean anyway? I am living life and greatly enjoying the opportunity to do so. I'm thankful every day for the friends and family I have, and for my kids and husband. I'm thankful that I get to feel good and that I get to do the things I want to do. I'm thankful it's not so much of a struggle anymore.

Are things always easy? Uh, NO. My ass hurts sometimes at the end of the day. I have to tell you, as good as Eric is at wound packing, it's still a bummer. And don't even get me started on my ugly swollen right ankle...blah.

But I know that the good is greatly outweighing the bad right now. Believe me, I'm sending that positive energy to anyone and everyone I know who is having a hard time. It's the least I can do.